2002 WNBA Read to Achieve

Read to Achieve is a year-round, league-wide initiative supported by all 29 NBA teams, 16 WNBA teams, and 8 NBDL teams that promotes the value of reading and on-line literacy and encourages families and adults to read regularly with young children. It is the most extensive educational outreach initiative in the history of professional sports. The program includes the annual donation of more than 200,000 books through a variety of reading events and book fairs, as well as the development of essay contests and on-line programs and the creation of Reading and Learning centers throughout North America.

2002 WNBA Read to Achieve Components

American Express

American Express will once again be the exclusive presenting partner of WNBA Read to Achieve. American Express WNBA Read to Achieve Summer Reading Season Tip-Off Event

In May the WNBA and each of its teams will hold Read to Achieve ‘Tip-Off’ events to signify the beginning of the WNBA Read to Achieve Summer Reading Season. 2002 WNBA All-Star

The American Express WNBA Read to Achieve Summer Reading Season will continue at 2002 WNBA All-Star in Washington, D.C. In addition to a strong presence at Summer Jam on Sunday, July 14 and Monday, July 15, American Express and the WNBA will also unveil a newly refurbished youth center in the D.C. area. Local Reading Time-Outs

All 16 WNBA teams will hold American Express Reading Time-Outs, a minimum of one per month, in their local markets throughout the 2002 season. NBA/WNBA All-Star Reading Teams

The 2002 NBA/WNBA All-Star Reading Teams will be comprised of WNBA players and other members of the NBA/WNBA family including NBA/WNBA officials, network broadcasters, hosts of NBA shows, senior executives of NBA & WNBA sponsors, selected government officials (i.e. Secretary of Education, Senators) and entertainment celebrities. NBA Store Events

Throughout the 2002 season, WNBA players from around the league will participate in American Express Read to Achieve events at the NBA Store when their teams are in town for games. Reading & Learning Centers

Teams will establish team branded Reading & Learning Centers in their markets. These centers can serve as a hub for team programs and events year round.

Last week, Lauren Hill of Mount St. Joseph University courageously took the floor for her first college game, refusing to let an inoperable brain tumor keep her from achieving her dream – and WNBA stars Elena Delle Donne and Tamika Catchings were on hand to lend their support.